The Kenyan Foreign Affairs Ministry acknowledges the complexity of Margaret Nduta Macharia’s case, sentenced to death in Vietnam for drug trafficking. In response to calls for intervention, they are negotiating with Vietnamese authorities for clemency. Nduta’s execution is set for Monday, increasing urgency amid the diplomatic efforts.
The Kenyan Foreign Affairs Ministry has described the case of Margaret Nduta Macharia, sentenced to death in Vietnam for drug trafficking, as “complex and difficult”. Her family, along with several Kenyan lawmakers, are advocating for diplomatic intervention before her upcoming execution scheduled for Monday. Nduta, aged 37, was convicted on March 6 for smuggling over two kilograms of cocaine.
Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has reached out to President William Ruto, requesting negotiations with Vietnam for Nduta’s repatriation or at least to have her death sentence commuted to life imprisonment on humanitarian grounds. Onyonka’s appeal emphasizes the need for Kenya to seek clemency and an alternative penalty.
In response, the Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary, Korir Sing’oei, confirmed on social media that the case is indeed complicated but assured the public that efforts are underway to secure a reprieve. He also communicated with Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nguyen Minh Hang, requesting a stay of execution amidst growing concerns from the Kenyan populace.
Sing’oei expressed gratitude for the assurance from Madam Hang that Kenya’s petition is being considered by Vietnamese authorities while the Kenyan Embassy in Thailand continues to address the matter, owing to the absence of a diplomatic mission in Vietnam.
Despite the cordial relations between Kenya and Vietnam, there are currently no bilateral agreements in place, with the last formal interaction occurring in 2020. As it stands, Nduta Macharia is set to have her last meal at 7:30 p.m. local time before the execution at 8:30 p.m. on Monday, consistent with Vietnam’s strict enforcement of drug law penalties.
In conclusion, the case of Margaret Nduta Macharia remains critical as her execution date approaches. The Foreign Affairs Ministry is actively engaging with Vietnamese officials to seek clemency and potentially negotiate her repatriation. Despite the complexities of diplomatic relations, there remains hope for a favorable resolution.
Original Source: www.citizen.digital
